Creative movement with music is the most obvious type of creative movement. This can be as simple as putting on music and asking your preschoolers to move to the beat. Use music with a variety of tempos and moods. You can also use music with specific motions such as the song "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" and have children do the motions while singing. If you want to try movement with music make sure children have plenty of space to move around.
Use a variety of props with creative movement. Bubbles, shakers and balloons are all excellent options. You can make simple streamers by taping crepe paper to a short stick or dowel rod. Have children wave the streamers in the air or practice drawing circles or loops. With a larger group this activity is best outside where there is more room to move. Instead of streamers you could use glow sticks. Turn out the lights and ask your children to trace their names or shapes with the sticks.
With a bit of imagination you can use creative movement to explore different academic skills. Have preschoolers practice counting by jumping or clapping for each number. They can practice saying their alphabet the same way, form letters with their hands or bodies. Explore scientific concepts by having children move like a butterfly, like a falling leaf or like a bear going into hibernation. Do animal walks where children get to imitate lions, elephants, snakes or monkeys.
Free creative movement is an excellent way to help children learn about their bodies and have a positive outlet for energy. Whether or not you choose to use music or props encouraging children to creatively move their bodies helps them to learn to express themselves. To help develop listening skills you can even play follow the leader or Simon Says, where a leader moves a specific way and children imitate the movements.